Geshe Tendzin Choidak, known in secular life as Mutul Vladimirovich Ovyanov, is a prominent Kalmyk Buddhist monk and the current Shajin Lama (Supreme Lama) of the Republic of Kalmykia in Russia. He holds the distinguished title of Geshe Lharampa, the highest academic degree in Gelug Tibetan Buddhism, and serves as abbot of the Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni (Burkhn Bagshin Altn Sume), the largest Buddhist temple in Europe, located in Elista.[1][2]
Born in Kalmykia, Tendzin Choidak pursued advanced Buddhist studies in India, where he trained under renowned teachers such as Geshe Jampa. He earned his Geshe degree in the post-Soviet era, becoming one of the first Kalmyks to achieve this honor. His education emphasized Tibetan language, Buddhist philosophy, logic, and dialectics.[3][4]
In May 2022, he was appointed abbot of the Central Khurul (monastery) in Elista. The Kalmyk monastic Sangha elected him as one of three candidates, and His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama approved his appointment as Shajin Lama in February 2023. His formal enthronement ceremony took place on March 18, 2023, in the Golden Abode temple.[1]
As Shajin Lama, Tendzin Choidak leads the revival and preservation of Tibetan Buddhism among the Kalmyks, Europe's only indigenous Buddhist population. He oversees religious ceremonies, educational programs, and interfaith activities. He has represented Kalmyk Buddhists at events in other Russian Buddhist regions like Tuva and has been involved in high-profile occasions, such as receiving sacred relics of the Buddha from India in 2025. His leadership emphasizes continuity with Gelug traditions while adapting to modern contexts in Russia.[2][5]
Tendzin Choidak's role underscores the enduring Buddhist heritage of the Kalmyks, descendants of Oirat Mongols, and contributes to the spiritual life of the community amid ongoing cultural preservation efforts.[1]